Inaugural Top 7 Over 70 Gala – Successful, Sold-Out Event

The Community Foundation of Southeastern Alberta witnessed a sold-out crowd on October 10 at Medalta in the Historic Clay District for the inaugural Top 7 Over 70 – Southeast Alberta Gala. This exciting event celebrated the exceptional accomplishments of seven remarkable seniors, after the age of 70, whose passion, innovation, and leadership have made a lasting impact in our region.

As pictured from left to right, the 7 honourees include Deborah Forbes, Jake Eckert, Martha Munz Gue, Bill Yuill, Wilma Hunter, Blair Reid, and Nancy Hanson. Full videos and bios can be found at cfsea.ca under the Initiatives page.

Presented by Leither Wheeler Investment Counsel, the Top 7 Over 70 Gala is part of a broader initiative, founded in 2017, by renowned Albertan, Jim Gray.

“Top 7 Over 70 is an exciting new project for Southeastern Alberta that celebrates active seniors over the age of seventy. These are not extraordinary people; they are ordinary people who are doing extraordinary things,” stated David Andrews, Top 7 Over 70 Committee Chair.

The evening program was comprised of many warm greetings, including those from Premier Danielle Smith and Top 7 Over 70 Founder, Jim Gray. Both leaders praised the honourees for their continued impact on the community. Touching videos and live interviews showcased the remarkable stories of the seven honourees, highlighting their achievements and inspiring the audience with their dedication to excellence in various fields.

Artist James Marshall designed hand-crafted ceramic awards which were presented to the seven honourees by the leading event sponsors.